How to Get Wireless Internet Service for a Laptop

By Pamela Gardapee

A laptop is another way to get out of the house and have the freedom to work or surf the Internet wherever you go, as long as you have a wireless connection. There are a few ways to achieve a wireless connection without too much difficulty. You should explore each way to determine which way will allow you to access the Internet as you choose or wherever you may be located.

Different Wireless Connections

Step 1

Buy a laptop that already has a wireless card. This is standard on most newer laptops. If you do not have one, you will have to purchase a wireless card for the laptop.

Step 2

Find a location in your area that is labeled as a "Hot Spot." Most McDonalds are hot spots, as well as some coffee shops. These places offer Internet connections free or for a small fee. Some have unsecured networks, and all you have to do is turn on your laptop and it finds this server to connect automatically. Some will require you to open your wireless screen to enter a password to use their server.

Step 3

Select a wireless provider so that you do not rely on someone else that has a dedicated server. The providers have a USB flash drive that you pay a monthly fee for so that you can use the laptop anywhere. You become your own "Hot Spot." The providers have towers everywhere and if you are in range of any one tower, you will connect to the Internet.

Step 4

Connect to the Internet in your home by using a router. You will need a service provider, a modem and a router to use your wireless laptop around the house or outside. When you hook up the router, you can make it secure. Then when you connect through the laptop, you will be asked for the password. Enter the password only one time, and you will connect all the time automatically.

Getting the Wireless Connection

Step 1

Find a connection by right clicking the mouse on your wireless icon in the task tray. Click on "Open network connection" and a new screen will appear showing the available connections.

Step 2

Look for a connection that has more than three bars and says, "Unsecured Connection." If the connection is not password protected and has a strong signal, you can choose to connect to that wireless connection. If you see "Secured Connection," you must enter a password to use that connection.

Step 3

Highlight the connection you want to use and click "Connect." After the connection is made, you will be online. If a password is needed for the "Secured Connection," you will be prompted to enter the password in a pop up box to connect.